Min Aung Hlaing, the leader of Myanmar's military junta, was sworn in as president in Naypyidaw, continuing his rule after a military coup in 2021 that ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. The election, which took place in January, was criticized for excluding her party and allowing military allies to secure positions in government, with over two-thirds of his 30 ministers being military personnel. Critics view this transition as a mere rebranding of military rule rather than a genuine shift towards democracy. Following the swearing-in ceremony, which was attended by representatives from 23 countries, including China and India, Min Aung Hlaing expressed intentions to restore normal relations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and emphasized social reconciliation. However, many political prisoners remain incarcerated, and the civil conflict continues to rage, undermining claims of legitimacy. The junta's efforts to normalize its image are seen as a strategy to attract foreign investment and support amidst ongoing international sanctions.